Linalool

Taylor

Formula: C10H18O

Mass: 154.252 g/mol

IUPAC Name: 3-7-dimethylocta-1,6-dien-3-ol

Density: 0.858-0.868 g/cm^3

Melting point: <-20C

Boiling point: 198-199 degrees Celsius

Structure:

Percent Composition by number:
Carbon: 10/29 34.5%

Hydrogen: 18/29 62.1%

Oxygen: 1/29 3.4%

Percent Composition by mass:
Carbon: 10 mol C * (12.01g) = (120.1g)/(154.252g) = 77.8%

Hydrogen: 18 mol H * (1.01g) = (18.18g)/(154.252g) = 11.8%

Oxygen: 1 mol O * (15.9994g) = (15.9994g)/(154.252g) = 10.4%

Bond type:
Because carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms are all non-metals, the bonds are covalent. There are two double bond within the chain.

3-D Model:

Linalool.bio

To view the 3-D model of linalool, download iMol and click the link above.

Historical Background:
Linalool is a terpene alcohol. It was one of the first to be reported in literature in 1853. About 30 years later, in 1881, its empirical formula was established. Many different scientists investigated this particular compound. They also conducted several experiments. Some experiments consisted of oxidation, while others consisted of mixtures and chemical reactions. It's year of Initial Registration is 1985.

How is it Obtained?:
Linalool is found in plants. Over 200 species of plants produce linalool. The main sources are the Lamiaceae (mints, scented herbs), Lauraceae (laurels, cinnamon, rosewood), and Rutaceae (citrus fruits) families.To obtain linalool, it is isolated from natural sources. It is necessary for it to undergo fractional distillation. Also, linalool can be produced through isomerizationof geraniol. However, that is not a suitable method of preparation. A careful fractional distillation of oils such as Brazilian rosewood oil and Mexican linaloe oil (ones that contain high percent of linalool) under vacuum through an efficient fractionating column gives comparatively pure linalool. When it is prepared that way, it will always contain small quantities of unknown substances.

Chemical Properties and Reaction Tendencies:

Linalool is a colorless liquid with a fresh, floral, woody scent. When in contact with oxygen, linalool will gradually break down. This forms an oxidized by-product that can and will cause allergic reactions such as eczema in certain individuals. Between 5 and 7 percent of patients who performed a patch testing in Sweden were found to be allergic to the oxidized form of linalool. Exposure to the oxidized product can be minimized by not buying large bottles of perfumed hygiene products as well as replacing the lid after each use. Linalool reacts with boric acid to form the borate which then in turn helps in separation and purification.

Uses and Importance of Linalool:
Linalool is used as an ingredient in floral fragrances. It is a scent in 60 to 80 percent of hygiene products and cleaning agents such as soap, lotion, shampoo, and detergent. One of its downstream products is Vitamin E. Linalool can also be used in flea and cockroach insecticide and some mosquito repellent products. One of its unique uses is stress relief. Studies have shown that inhaling linalool can reduce stress in lab rats. It leads to decreased aggressive behavior, lessens stress response, and improves sleep.